Do You Need a Teeth Cleaning Before Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Is it necessary to have a dental cleaning before getting wisdom teeth extracted?

I have never had a dental cleaning before.
Today, I went to the hospital because my lower left wisdom tooth is inflamed and swollen (previously, a clinic advised me to have it extracted at the hospital).
Additionally, that wisdom tooth has not erupted.
After examining my teeth, the dentist indicated that I have excessive tartar buildup and need a dental cleaning, possibly even a deep cleaning, along with some fillings.
I find it a bit troublesome and was thinking of just going to an outside clinic for the cleaning since I only want to have that wisdom tooth extracted.
In this situation, is it necessary to have a dental cleaning before the extraction?

Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/01

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Ms.
Huang,
Hello! Essentially, this doctor is very diligent and attentive.
They recommend that you undergo a dental cleaning first, as it can reduce the risk of surgical infection.
Please communicate more with the doctor! Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2017/09/01

More Info

When it comes to wisdom tooth extraction, the question of whether or not to have a teeth cleaning beforehand is quite relevant, especially in your case where you have significant tartar buildup and an inflamed wisdom tooth. The recommendation from your dentist to have a cleaning prior to the extraction is not uncommon and is based on several important considerations.

Firstly, having a thorough dental cleaning before the extraction can significantly reduce the risk of infection. When there is a lot of plaque and tartar on the teeth, it can harbor bacteria that may lead to complications during and after the extraction. An infection can not only delay healing but can also lead to more severe health issues. By cleaning your teeth, the dentist can remove these harmful deposits, thus creating a cleaner environment for the extraction.

Secondly, a dental cleaning can help the dentist get a better view of your oral health. If there are underlying issues, such as cavities or gum disease, these can be addressed before the extraction. This is particularly important if your wisdom tooth is impacted or if there are other teeth that may be affected by the extraction. A clean mouth allows for a more straightforward procedure and can lead to a smoother recovery.

Moreover, if your wisdom tooth is causing pain and inflammation, it is essential to manage that condition effectively. Sometimes, a cleaning can help alleviate some of the inflammation by reducing the bacterial load in your mouth. This can make the extraction process easier and less painful.

While it may seem inconvenient to have a cleaning done before the extraction, it is a proactive step that can ultimately save you from complications later on. If you are concerned about the cost or time involved, discuss this with your dentist. They may be able to provide a more streamlined cleaning that focuses on the areas most relevant to your upcoming procedure.

In summary, while it may be tempting to skip the cleaning and go straight for the extraction, it is generally advisable to follow your dentist's recommendation. Cleaning your teeth before the extraction can help minimize the risk of infection, provide a clearer picture of your oral health, and potentially make the extraction and recovery process smoother. If you have any further concerns or questions, don't hesitate to communicate with your dental care provider. They are there to help you make the best decisions for your oral health.

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